Level 2 Award in Youth Work Principles
Develop your practice. Build your confidence. Make a lasting difference.
Youth work is about helping young people discover who they are, build positive relationships and play an active role in their communities. Through informal education, young people learn about themselves, others and the world around them in environments that combine enjoyment, challenge and learning.
This nationally recognised qualification provides a strong foundation in youth work principles, young people’s development and safeguarding, helping you build the knowledge, skills and confidence to support young people effectively.
Overview
The NOCN Level 2 Award in Youth Work Principles is an introductory qualification for people who are working, volunteering or looking to begin supporting young people in youth and community settings.
Delivered over 16 weeks through blended learning, the programme combines practical workshops, discussion and reflection with independent learning to help you develop confidence in your role and apply your learning to real-life youth work practice.
What you’ll learn
The qualification consists of four nationally recognised units.
Theory of Youth Work
Explore the purpose, principles and values of youth work, the role of the youth worker and how informal education supports young people’s personal and social development.
Young People’s Development
Develop your understanding of how young people grow and develop, the factors that influence their experiences and how to build positive, meaningful relationships.
Safeguarding in a Youth Work Setting
Build confidence in recognising safeguarding responsibilities, responding appropriately to concerns and creating safe, inclusive environments where young people can thrive.
Engaging and Communicating with Young People
Develop practical communication skills, explore different ways of engaging young people and build positive relationships that encourage participation, confidence and personal growth.
Learn youth work by doing youth work
The best way to learn youth work is by doing youth work.
Youth work is built through experience, relationships and reflection. Throughout the programme, you’ll connect theory with your own practice, applying what you learn in real-life settings and bringing your experiences back to the group.
Whether you’re volunteering, working in a youth or community organisation, or completing a youth work placement, you’ll be encouraged to reflect on your experiences, share ideas with others and continually develop your practice.
How you’ll learn
The programme combines a range of learning experiences designed to support different learning styles and fit around work and volunteering commitments.
Throughout the programme you’ll take part in:
- Face-to-face workshops
- Live online learning sessions
- Practical activities and group discussions
- Independent study between sessions
- Reflection linked to your own youth work practice
- Tutor guidance and feedback throughout the programme
Learning is collaborative and supportive, giving you opportunities to learn from experienced tutors as well as from others working and volunteering with young people.
Assessment
Assessment is designed to support your learning rather than simply measure it.
There are no formal examinations. Instead, you’ll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the programme, demonstrating your knowledge and understanding through practical and written activities linked to each unit.
Your tutors and assessors will provide guidance and feedback throughout your learning journey, helping you build confidence as you progress.
Your learning experience
At the Youth Work Academy, we believe people learn best when they feel supported, encouraged and able to learn from one another.
Our small cohorts create opportunities to share experiences, discuss real-life challenges and learn from different perspectives. You’ll become part of a learning community where questions are welcomed, ideas are explored and professional confidence grows over time.
Your next step
Completing the Level 2 Award provides a strong foundation for further learning and development in youth work.
Many learners go on to:
- Continue or expand their youth work or volunteering role
- Take on greater responsibility within their organisation
- Progress to higher-level youth work qualifications
- Develop transferable skills for education, community and family support roles
- Continue learning through future Youth Work Academy programmes and professional development opportunities
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re just beginning your youth work journey or looking to strengthen your existing practice, we’d love to welcome you to the Youth Work Academy.
Register your interest today to receive information about upcoming cohorts, funding opportunities and information sessions.
Register your interest
Not sure if the programme is right for you? Get in touch—we’re happy to talk through your role, experience and funding options.